CATALINA ISLAND MARATHON TO BRING HUNDREDS OF RUNNERS TO THE WILDLANDS

AVALON, CA (March 15, 2016) - Nearly one thousand walkers and runners will take to the streets of Avalon and Catalina Island’s wildlands on Saturday for the Catalina Island Marathon, an annual event that helps support the Catalina Island Conservancy’s mission to restore and protect the Island.

The marathon will feature the exciting and historic marathon course used largely since the first year on the Catalina Island Conservancy’s lands. This includes much of the rugged terrain, spectacular vistas and special challenges enjoyed by renowned runner Hans Albrecht and friends in the earliest days of the event under his management.

The marathon course will take runners from Two Harbors through the wildlands and into Avalon. The event also features 10K and 5K courses, as well as a shorter “kid’s run,” which traverse the streets of Avalon.

“The Catalina Island Marathon is a signature running event that offers a chance to walk and run through some of the world’s most beautiful and unspoiled terrain while also supporting the organization that is protecting and restoring these lands, the Catalina Island Conservancy,” said Race Director, Mike Bone. “The marathon offers a challenging and inspiring course that continues to attract world-class runners and enthusiasts who love it so much that they return year after year.”

Marathon walkers are scheduled to leave from the starting line in Two Harbors at 6:30 a.m., followed by marathon runners at 7 a.m. Runners intending to complete a shorter, 5K run are slated to leave from the Avalon starting line, located at Wrigley Stage near Avalon’s Green Pier, at 8:15 a.m. Runners planning to complete a 10K are scheduled to start in Avalon at 8:20 a.m., followed by participants in the kids run at 9:30 a.m. All runners must finish within eight hours.

To reduce litter and the marathon’s impact on the Island, this year’s event will again feature a cupless course. For hydration, runners will be offered the option to purchase a $5 Salomon reusable soft-cup or provide their own hydration system. To learn more, please visit www.RunCatalina.com.

About Catalina Conservancy

Formed in 1972, the Catalina Island Conservancy is one of California's oldest land trusts. Its mission is to be a responsible steward of its lands through a balance of conservation, education and recreation. Through its ongoing efforts, the Conservancy protects the magnificent natural and cultural heritage of Santa Catalina Island, stewarding approximately 42,000 acres of land and more than 60 miles of rugged shoreline. It provides an airport and 50 miles of biking and nearly 150 miles of hiking opportunities within its road and trail system. The Conservancy conducts educational outreach through two nature centers, its Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden and guided experiences in the Island’s rugged interior. Twenty miles from the mainland, the Island is a treasure trove of historical and archaeological sites. It also contains numerous rare and endangered animals and plants. The Island is home to 60 species – and counting – that are found only on Catalina. For additional information, please visit www.catalinaconservancy.org.

About Spectrum Sports Management

As the leading Southern California-based event management and production company, Spectrum Sports Management has produced more than 150 sporting events since its launch in 2001. From 5K, 10K, Half-Marathon and Marathon races, to charity golf, and the prestigious Northern Trust Open on the PGA TOUR’s West Coast swing, all hosted throughout the Southland, to Disney’s annual character-themed race productions, Spectrum is a leader of hosting large-scale events that welcome athletes and families of all ages and experience. For more information on Spectrum’s category expertise and upcoming events, visit www.spectrumsports.net